Periodontal Disease Treatment

Gingivitis can be defined as the bacterial inflammation of the gums. This infection can be spread to the teeth an can start an irreversible process.

The key is prevention, but if the inflammation spreads to the gum and bone structure, with pocket-reducing surgery we can reach a better adhesion of the gum to the bone.

BeforeAfter
Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and food particles constantly form a sticky, colorless coating on teeth known as “plaque”. Brushing and flossing between teeth helps get rid of plaque however, plaque that is not removed hardens to form ‘tartar’ that ordinary brushing won’t remove.

The longer plaque and tartar are left on teeth the more harmful they become. Only professional cleaning by a dentist can remove tartar.

Most people suffer from some form of gum disease with signs not showing until they are in their 30’s or 40’s. Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in irreversible damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth; it is the major cause of tooth loss in adults.

The first line of defense against Periodontal disease is prevention. This necessitates a good daily oral hygiene routine at home. Brushing at least twice a day and cleaning between teeth once a day with floss helps prevent plaque and bacteria from accumulating.

In order to make an accurate assessment of your needs, an Initial Consultation is first necessary. Depending on how far the diseases have progressed, treatment can vary. Following Consultation you would be given a detailed treatment plan outlining the options available to you, the exact cost, number of visits and the time scale which may depend upon any required healing time.

The number of appointments required depends on the area to be treated with generally one appointment a day, per quadrant.

Closed Curettage Periodontal Surgery

This treatment consists of eliminating the tartar and infection causing bacteria and irritants that have built up on and just below the gum line. There is no need to open the gum in this treatment.

Open Curettage Periodontal Surgery

This treatment also removes built up tartar and infectious bacteria but if they are found to be deeper, the gum needs to be opened or cut to allow us to remove the tartar and then arrange the gum tissue into a shape that will be easier to keep clean.